The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign is a global initiative that kicks off on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and runs until December 10, Human Rights Day. In Canada, the 16 Days also encompass December 6, the day in 1989 when 14 women were murdered at L’Ecole Polytechnique in Montreal. The campaign serves as a poignant reminder of the work needed to eradicate gender-based violence. The Government of Canada’s theme for the 2023 campaign is Listen. Learn. Act: listen to survivors and their stories, learn more about the issue, and act by advocating for policy reforms and funding.  As an experienced diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant, I want to unpack this critical issue and propose actionable steps we can take collectively to create a safer, more equitable society.

Understanding Gender-Based Violence:

Gender-based violence transcends boundaries, impacting individuals of all backgrounds. In Canada, the statistics are alarming. According to a recent report by Statistics Canada, one in three women and one in ten men have experienced sexual assault after the age of 15. These figures underscore the urgency of addressing this pervasive issue.

The Government of Canada's Commitments to Ending Gender-Based Violence

In the Hon. Marci Ien’s statement, she outlines the federal government’s commitment to ending gender-based violence including:

• creating a national alert system when an Indigenous cis, trans, and 2SLGBTQ+ woman or girl is missing or at risk of being murdered, as well as when a 2SLGBTQ+ person is missing or at risk of being murdered.

• they are investing in 178 shelters and transitional housing in Indigenous communities across Canada.

• Providing access to mental health and addictions services for survivors through the Wellness Together Canada program. 

• funding 63 organizations to eliminate human trafficking.

• Working to end homelessness by among other things, prioritizing women and children leaving abusive households and 2S LGBTQ+ folks.

Five Actions to End Gender-Based Violence:

Although the Government of Canada has made financial, political, and legal commitments to end gender-based violence, we each have a role to play in ending this violence. Below are five ways we can show up for survivors to prevent and better respond to this form of abuse.

1. Education and Awareness

The first step towards ending gender-based violence is fostering awareness and understanding. Educational initiatives that challenge stereotypes, promote healthy relationships, and inform individuals about consent are essential. Schools, workplaces, and communities can organize workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to facilitate open conversations and break the silence surrounding the issue.

2. Support Survivors

Providing supportive environments for survivors is crucial. This involves creating safe spaces for survivors to share their experiences without judgment. Communities can establish support groups, helplines, and counselling services to ensure survivors have access to the resources they need. Encouraging a culture of empathy and belief in survivors is integral to dismantling the stigma associated with gender-based violence.

3. Advocacy and Policy Change

Activism goes beyond raising awareness; it involves advocating for systemic change. Individuals and organizations can actively engage in lobbying for policies that address gender-based violence comprehensively. This includes pushing for legislation that protects survivors, holds perpetrators accountable, and ensures that resources are available for prevention and support programs, including funding. As well, advocate for workplace policies that prioritize safety and equity.

4. Engage Cisgender Men and Boys

Gender-based violence is not solely an issue for cisgender women, trans and gender diverse folks; it’s a societal problem that requires collective action. Engaging men and boys in conversations about toxic masculinity, consent, and healthy relationships is crucial. By challenging traditional gender norms and fostering positive masculinity, we can create a culture that rejects violence and promotes equality.

5. Promote Economic Empowerment:

Economic dependence can be a significant barrier for survivors seeking to escape abusive situations. Empowering survivors economically can provide them with the means to break free from abusive relationships. This involves supporting initiatives that provide job training, financial education, and opportunities for economic independence.

Conclusion

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence serve as a call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations across Canada. Ending gender-based violence requires a multi-faceted approach that includes education, support for survivors, advocacy for policy change, engagement of cisgender men and boys, and economic empowerment. By taking these actions, we can build a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from violence and fear. Let us stand together and commit to creating a future where equity and safety are the foundations of our communities.

What actions are you taking during the 16 Days of Activism? Email me at michelle@mvdconsulting.ca and let me know.

Michelle

CEO

michelle@mvdconsulting.ca 

Your DEI and Anti-Racist Workplace Consultant